A dog‘s normal body temperature is usually between 100.5°F and 102.5°F. When this temperature is above the normal range, it indicates that your furry friend has a fever. Fever in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, inflammation, and environmental issues. While it is always important to consult a veterinarian for the correct diagnosis and treatment plan, there are several home remedies that can help control a dog’s fever in the short term and provide some relief until professional medical attention is obtained.
Understand the causes of fever in dogs
infect
Infection is a common cause of fever in dogs. Bacterial infections can occur in various parts of the body, such as the skin, ears, urinary tract, or respiratory system. For example, a dog with a urinary tract infection may have a fever with symptoms such as frequent urination or difficulty urinating. Viral infections, such as parvovirus, distemper or influenza, can also cause an increase in body temperature. These viruses affect a dog’s immune system, causing a range of symptoms including fever, lethargy and loss of appetite. Fungal infections, though less common, can also be to blame. Infections such as ringworm or systemic fungal infections can trigger a fever, especially if they spread through the body.
Inflammatory condition
Inflammation in a dog can cause fever. This can be due to an injury, such as a sprained joint or a wound infection. Inflammatory bowel disease affects the digestive tract and can cause chronic inflammation and lead to a low-grade fever. Arthritis, whether due to age, injury or genetics, can also cause a rise in body temperature as the body’s immune system responds to inflamed joints.
Environmental factor
Heat stroke is an important environmental cause of fever in dogs. When dogs are exposed to high temperatures, especially in a hot, humid environment with no shade or water, their body temperature can rise rapidly. This can be very dangerous and requires immediate attention. In addition, exposure to certain toxins or chemicals in the environment can cause an inflammatory response in the body, leading to fever.
Immune-mediated disease
With some diseases, a malfunctioning dog’s immune system can cause fever. Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or immune-mediated hemolytic anemia, cause the body’s immune system to attack its own tissues. This causes inflammation and increases body temperature. In these cases, the fever may be persistent and accompanied by other symptoms associated with the specific autoimmune disease.
Recognize the signs of fever in a dog
Physical symptom
A dog with a fever may have a warm or hot body touch, especially in the ears, PAWS, and belly. You may notice that your dog’s nose is very dry, although a dry nose is not always a reliable indicator of fever, as it can also be dry for other reasons. Lethargy is a common sign that your dog may seem less active, more tired than usual, and may not want to play or walk. Shivering or trembling can also occur, which seems counterintuitive because we usually associate shivering with cold. However, in the case of fever, it may be the body’s way of trying to generate heat to fight the underlying problem.
Behavioral change
When your dog has a fever, his behavior may change. It may be more withdrawn, hiding in quiet corners or under furniture. Loss of appetite is also common, as the dog may not want to eat. Some dogs may also show signs of restlessness, pacing, or whining, especially if they are uncomfortable with a fever. Also, if the fever is caused by an infection in a specific area, such as an ear infection, the dog may paw at the affected area or show signs of pain when touching that part of the body.
Home remedies for dog fever
Cool the dog
The first step in treating a dog’s fever at home is to help its body cool down. You can gently wipe your dog’s body with a wet towel, focusing on areas with little hair, such as the belly, inner thighs, and under the armpits. The evaporation of water from the towel helps to lower your body temperature. Another option is to put a cold compress (but not a cold one) on the dog’s forehead or neck. You can soak a small towel in cold water, wring it out, and then apply it to your dog for a few minutes at a time. Avoid using ice water or ice packs directly on the dog’s skin, as this can cause blood vessels to constrict too quickly, making the fever worse or causing discomfort to the dog. You can also use a fan to blow cool air on your dog to help the cooling process by increasing the rate at which your dog’s body evaporates.
Provide plenty of water
When a dog has a fever, it is vital to stay hydrated. Dehydration can happen quickly, especially if the dog has other symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea. Give your dog small amounts of water regularly. You can use a shallow bowl or a syringe (no needles) for water. If your dog refuses to drink water, try adding a small amount of low-sodium chicken soup to the water to make it more appealing. Another option is to make your own electrolyte solution. Mix 1 litre of water with 1 teaspoon of salt and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Stir well until the salt and sugar dissolve. Give your dog this solution in small amounts to help replace lost electrolytes.
Provide a light and nutritious diet
During a fever, your dog’s appetite may decrease, but it’s still important to provide some nutrition. A light diet that is easy to digest is ideal. Boiled chicken with white rice is a good choice. Cook boneless, skinless chicken breasts and white rice until tender. Cut the chicken into small pieces and mix it with the rice. Give this mixture to your dog in small amounts. You can also try giving your dog a small amount of unsweetened yogurt. Yogurt contains probiotics that aid digestion. However, before giving your dog yogurt, make sure your dog does not have a dairy intolerance. Another option is to provide a small amount of canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling). Pumpkin is rich in fiber, which helps regulate the digestive system.
Use herbs (Use with caution)
Some herbs may have properties that help dogs reduce fever. However, be very careful when using them, as some herbs are toxic to dogs. Chamomile is an herb that may be beneficial. You can soak chamomile in hot water for a few minutes and let it cool. Soak a clean cloth in tea and gently wipe the dog’s PAWS or ears. Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Another herb is echinacea. Echinacea is thought to boost the immune system. You can find echinacea tinctures made for pets. Take the dosage recommended on the product label. But be sure to consult your veterinarian before using any herbs, as they may interact with other medications your dog is taking or cause an allergic reaction.
Create a comfortable and quiet resting environment
A feverish dog needs plenty of rest to recover. Create a quiet, comfortable resting space for your dog. Use soft, clean bedding in a cool, well-ventilated area. Keep the area dimly lit to reduce stress. Reduce noise and distractions as much as possible. This will allow your dog to relax and conserve energy, which is essential for the body to fight off the cause of the fever.
When to seek veterinary care
High fever or persistent fever
If your dog’s fever is 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, it is considered a high fever and needs to see a veterinarian immediately. Even if the fever is low but persists for more than 24 hours, consult a veterinarian. A persistent fever may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment.
Related symptom
If your dog has a fever and other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, seizures, or severe drowsiness, seek veterinary care immediately. These additional symptoms can be life-threatening, such as severe infection, heat stroke, or organ failure.
Basic health status
If your dog already has health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or a weakened immune system, any fever should be taken seriously. These dogs are more susceptible to complications from fever and early veterinary intervention is critical.
Precautions when using home remedies
Avoid overcooling
While it’s important to cool your dog down, be careful not to get too cold. If your dog starts shaking violently or drops too low in temperature, stop the cooling process immediately. Wrap your dog in a warm, dry blanket and monitor his temperature closely. Too much cold can lead to hypothermia, which can be just as dangerous as a high fever.
Watch for anaphylaxis
When using new products or treatments, such as herbal teas or electrolyte solutions, watch for any signs of an allergic reaction. These include facial swelling, hives, itching, vomiting or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop using the product and contact your veterinarian.
Don’t delay professional treatment
Home remedies are intended to provide temporary relief and support while waiting for veterinary treatment. They should not replace professional medical advice. If you are unsure of your dog’s condition, or if the fever does not improve with home treatment, always seek veterinary help.
Conclusion
Dog fever is an alarming situation for pet owners. By understanding the possible causes of fever, recognizing the symptoms, and using appropriate home remedies, you can help your dog feel more comfortable and begin the recovery process. However, always keep in mind the importance of veterinary care, especially in cases of high or persistent fever and other related symptoms. With the right attention and care, your furry friend can overcome a fever and return to a healthy, active self.
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